Filipino wellness company Santé International is entering what it calls a “future-forward” era in 2026, rolling out an AI-powered system, expanding into new international markets and securing long-sought accreditation from the Direct Selling Association of the Philippines as it marks its 19th year in business.
The homegrown health and wellness company formally launched its “Future Forward” chapter during Santé Salvo Week 2026, a four-day gathering hat brought together distributors, partners and executives for recognition ceremonies, business updates and major announcements.
Held across multiple venues, including a gala night at the Marriott Hotel Manila and the 19th Salvo National Sales Convention at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, the event spotlighted system upgrades, a new compensation plan and the company’s expansion into international markets.
At a press conference, CEO Joey Marcelo detailed the company’s technology-driven push.
“We’re expanding into more countries, with Saudi Arabia and Canada set to open soon, and we’re launching Santé Next AI. This innovation will touch every part of the business — from products and compensation to technology. Our goal is for Santé to be known not only in the Philippines but globally.
“For us, AI also means Accelerate and Innovate, but we’re also leveraging artificial intelligence to help our business owners grow globally. In Indonesia, for example, language was a challenge. Through AI, we’re now able to communicate effectively in their local language.
“AI will help our business owners analyze their networks beyond their home markets and identify the next best countries to enter. We’re launching 20 AI features in the system. AI is no longer something for the future — it’s already here, and we intend to use it to support our business owners, management, and IT teams as we move forward.”
A key milestone during Salvo Week was Santé’s acceptance into the Direct Selling Association of the Philippines (DSAP), a move executives say strengthens the company’s credibility and compliance standards.
“This recognition reflects our commitment to ethical business practices, transparency, and consumer trust. It shows that Santé is not only growing, but also maturing as an organization aligned with global standards.”
Marcelo shared the lengthy process behind the accreditation. “I attended a DSAP event and noticed that most members were foreign companies. We had applied for years but couldn’t pass because of issues with our compensation plan. With Santé Next AI, we revamped the plan to meet global standards, applied again, and were finally certified. It’s a mark of legitimacy, and we’re proud to now be part of DSAP. Our compensation program is now compliant, including in Indonesia.”
Wellness for the next generation
Executives said product development will continue to focus on prevention, innovation and younger consumers, with an eye on global markets.
Marcelo said the company invests heavily in research and manufacturing, including its own facility in New Zealand, to support international growth and new product lines.
“Wellness is an industry that needs continuous innovation. We want to develop new and innovative products not only for Gen X and baby boomers, but also for millennials and Gen Z,” he said.
Minerva Carag, chief product officer and co-founder, cited growing demand for preventive health. “When we look at the health landscape in the Philippines, especially after Covid, more people have become conscious of natural ways to take care of their health. You don’t have to wait until you get sick. Wellness, prevention, food supplements, and a healthy lifestyle — that’s the message we want to communicate.”
As it steps into its next chapter, Santé said its mission remains rooted in empowering Filipinos through health and entrepreneurship while building a stronger global presence.
